Excited for that trip abroad? Before you dream about all the sights and sounds and the people and everything you're going to experience, have a reality check first. How prepared are you really? It will benefit you much if you really fix all that needs to be fixed before jumping on that plane, so there's no room left for stress and regret once you've stepped onto that foreign land. Here are some tips to make sure you have the vacation of your dreams.



Before the Travel

Research. Choose your destination well. Research on the specific location you plan to go to before you book anything. You never know if certain diseases are currently at large in the place. Remember that local conditions change quickly. Being aware of the health status of a place is especially important if you're traveling with people more susceptible to catching diseases such as children, pregnant women, or those with weak immune systems. Don't risk ? a visit to the hospital is surely not included in your vacation plans.

Stock up on medicine. Pack lots of preventive medications and immunizations. A medical kit will also help you during emergencies.

Familiarize. Know the culture of the country you are visiting. Keeping in mind the laws of the country is especially important because one wrong move can land you in jail if you're not careful. Learn basic language that you will need. Have a general idea of the people and their ways.

Leave contact details. Remember to give your family or friends a copy of your itinerary so if anything unfortunate happens, they have an idea where to find you. Leave contact numbers so they also know how to contact you in case of emergencies.

During the Travel

Keep luggage in sight. Never take your eyes or your grip off your luggage, especially in public areas.

Dress sensibly. Avoid wearing conspicuous clothes and expensive jewelry, unless you want to attract pickpockets. Furthermore, do not carry too much money or unnecessary credit cards.

Be hygienic. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. After a day's travel, make sure your clothes are washed well to remove all unwanted components you may have caught from the air.

Choose what you take in. As much as possible, avoid drinking tap water, whether in mixed drinks or in ice cubes. Better buy only branded mineral water or boiled beverages like coffee and tea. Avoid raw or uncooked food, as you never know how strongly your stomach may react. When consuming dairy products such as milk and cheese, make sure they are pasteurized. Don't drink directly from bottles or cans to avoid contamination.

Know your embassy. Be aware of how to contact your embassy in the country so in case of problems, you can reach them.

After the Travel

Do a health check. Check if you have developed any unusual symptoms. Immediately see your doctor if you notice anything weird about your body. If some of your preventive medications need to be taken upon your return home, don't forget to take them upon your return.